How to Hang a Joist Hanger

Use the right type and size of hanger with proper nails; never use screws. Most building supply stores and other outlets which sell hangers have brochures or information explaining the options for hangers and the sizes and types of nails to use with each style. Some hangers require two sizes of nail because they fasten not only to the sides of each board, but diagonally through a joist into the abutting beam.

Set the joist in place and toenail it to the beam for one installation method, typically used for decks and projects with smaller joists. Squeeze the hanger into place around the joist and drive its prongs on the end into the beam with a hammer. Once the hanger is properly in place, nail it to the beam and to the joist with a nail in every opening on the hanger. Use galvanized steel nails of the proper length, usually 1 1/2 inches for 2-by-4 deck joists. Use a speed square to make sure the joist is vertical.

Install hangers on the beams at designated joist connections with the prongs and secure with one nail. This requires careful measurement with a tape measure to locate hangers at the proper spots. Some carpenters install all hangers before setting joists in place (setting joists will require help no matter the style of installation since one person typically cannot support both ends at the same time). Once hangers are set, put joists into them and drive nails in all hanger holes, both in beam and joist. Nail to the beam first to support the joist while nailing it.

Place hangers on the ends of joists first, as an alternative. Set the joist ends evenly to the back of the hanger plate and nail it to the joist on both sides, keeping the joist end and hanger plate flush. Raise the joist in place and drive the hanger prongs into the beam, then add nails at all nailing holes. Be sure the top of the joist is flush with the top of the beam before nailing.

Vary the length of nails with the width of the joist. A 2-inch joist (4, 6, 8 or 10 inches thick) will use 1 1/2-inch nails except with hangers that have angled connections so nails go through the joist into the beam; those will require 3 1/2-inch nails. Get the proper thickness of nail, generally to fit the size of the holes in the hangers. Nails too thin will lack strength.